The magic of the old fashioned Big Top Circus is alive and well thanks to the hard working men and women of the Kelly Miller Bros. Circus. This traditional tented circus has been delighting audiences across the United States and Canada since 1938, and this season’s all new edition provides an exhibition more exciting and extravagant than ever.

Performances of the Kelly Miller Bros. Circus feature elephants, horses, clowns and a roster of international circus stars. Setting up the circus can be almost as entertaining as the big show itself. Trucks pull onto the lot from the previous night’s town. Animals are unloaded, stakes are driven and both workers and elephants lift the giant Big Top into the air. This sneak peek behind the scenes is open to the public, and free of charge. Beyond that, the public is even invited to step inside the tent and see man and beast hard at work. A knowledgeable circus veteran will be on hand to answer any questions.

Kelly Miller Bros. operations have changed little in their 80+ years under the Big Top. In 1938, Obert Miller and his two sons left their homes in Kansas to start a circus. Back then the show was little more than a couple of monkeys and ponies. Over the years the circus has grown to an impressive 200 shows per year, along with nearly 10,000 travel miles.

WHEN: October 18, shows at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Cooper County Youth Fairgrounds

TICKETS Discount tickets will be available from 8 a.m. to noon at the Circus Box Office. Adults $10, Children $6. Tickets at the gate will be Adults $15 and Children $7.

. A few facts about the show:

• 72 people on the road with the circus

• 24 animals will perform

• 6 semi-trucks haul the equipment

from city to city

• 11,824 sq. ft. of vinyl on the Big Top

• 9,540 lbs. is the weight of Viola,

the show’s largest elephant

Featured Acts:

The Enchanting Miss Rebecca

Following her appearance in the film Water for Elephants, Rebecca pulls off magnificent maneuvers in the dome of the Big Top.

Silk Road Camels

Animal expert Mike Rice presents “ships of the desert” in a dazzling display of animal expertise.

Duo Delara

This talented team brings grace and daring to the air with their remarkable display of strength, style and skill. Audiences will be on the edge of their seat as the dynamic duo delivers heart racing entertainment from on high.

Ryan and his tigers

The world’s youngest tiger trainer, Ryan is confident and comfortable with his sleek, striped jungle giants. These ferocious felines are sure to be appreciated in the heart of Mizzou country.

Page 2 of 2 - Clown Alley

Steve Copleland and Ryan Combs are masters of mirth. They bring carefully crafted chaos to the ring. It is serious business for this twosome, but to quote the Beatles, “a splendid time is guaranteed for all.”